By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a measure that would require superintendents of medium- and maximum-security prisons to block inmates from accessing free weights or any other exercise equipment that is not secured.

Sponsor Rep. Steven Xiarhos (R-Barnstable) said the bill is named “Matt’s Law” in honor of Corrections Officer Matthew Tidman, who was brutally assaulted in 2022 by a prison inmate who used free weights from a prison gym facility as a weapon.

“I am proud to have filed the bill … this session and I believe its protections are necessary to keep our correction officers safe at work,” said Xiarhos. “These brave men and women risk their safety for us every day and it is important for us to have their back.”